The mind-set of today is an awakening for me, of the times we’re in and how much I’ve aged. It’s not that I was averse to decorating my first apartment, still, it wouldn’t have occurred to me to buy curtains or a coffee maker, much less a 75” TV. I was living on a student’s budget, as they say.
Or used to say. Witnessing the shopping frenzy at the big-box
stores, college freshmen checking off items from a list they’d obtained from
Pinterest, I wondered if the phrase still applies.
With hundreds of television shows focused on
design and websites like Pinterest, we’re all savvier about decorating and
desire to live in well-designed spaces. That may be true, but doing it on a
budget is still my narrative.
Between Craigslist, thrifting at second-hand
stores, and my beloved Target sales, we furnished our son’s college apartment
for less than $850. Reusing and recycling is significant, but it’s also
important to judge furniture and supplies for its durability. Even the most careful of person will find it difficult to
keep their college possessions in good shape as they move in and out of dorm
rooms and college apartments for the next four years. Hardy furniture can be
expensive when purchased new, so consider a gently used piece, even if it needs
some minor sprucing up. A small can of paint can totally transform a lackluster
table into an incredible conversation piece.
And lately,
it’s not unusual to see fancy college dorm (or apartment) room photos. In fact,
some designers even specialize in the trend.
Below are a few images from my minimalist design application, with
respect to my son’s personality style, using muted colors, adding interest with
texture and a bit of mixed patterns. A fluffy faux fur rug covers tan linoleum tiles in the bathroom, and a fern
freshens up the rather bland kitchen – just to name a few.
Sure, at this point in his life, his needs are simple: a sofa to play video games from, a mattress on the floor to sleep on and odor eliminator spray to mask the strange smells of his well-used furniture. But I really wanted to do something that’s warm and cozy, something that gives a sense of home.
Sure, at this point in his life, his needs are simple: a sofa to play video games from, a mattress on the floor to sleep on and odor eliminator spray to mask the strange smells of his well-used furniture. But I really wanted to do something that’s warm and cozy, something that gives a sense of home.
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